The number of Hantavirus cases in Argentina has nearly doubled since June 2025, as confirmed by the Argentine Health Ministry. A Dutch vessel, MV Hondius, off the coast of Cape Verde, is currently housing about 150 stranded passengers, with most staying in their cabins to avoid the virus.
The virus has already caused three deaths and left eight others severely ill. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that two individuals who were on the cruise have returned to the UK and are self-isolating after displaying no symptoms.
Argentina, where the cruise departed for Antarctica, is known for having the highest incidence of the rodent-borne disease in Latin America, according to the World Health Organization.
Experts attribute the spread of the virus in Argentina to climate change, causing the region to become more tropical and conducive to the proliferation of mice, carriers of the disease.
The Argentine Health Ministry reported 101 hantavirus cases since June 2025, double the number from the previous year. Fatal outbreaks have been reported, with hospitals in rural areas lacking proper equipment to handle the situation.
A tragic case involved a 14-year-old boy who initially thought he had the flu but later tested positive for Hantavirus and passed away shortly after.
Oceanwide Expeditions has provided updates on the situation, confirming the transfer of passengers to the Netherlands for medical care and the departure of MV Hondius towards the Canary Islands. The company is in close communication with authorities for further actions.
For the latest updates on the MV Hondius, readers can follow the live blog provided on the website.
